Really good medieval mystery. One of the reasons I like this series is that it includes the church, politics, and well-to-do people but it's mostly about merchants, musicians, everyday soldiers and people of that class. You don't get a lot of medieval books like that, that give yo a feel for how ordinary folks lived. I also like that Lucy is independent, intelligent, and a bit strong-willed. Perhaps she's anachronistic for that time, but I suspect there have always been women like that and men who love them enough to compromise. I also like that, though Owen and Lucy love each other, their life isn't always perfect. Sometimes they clash, sometimes they worry about the other, sometimes they aren't speaking. lol It all feels very real. I'm not so crazy about the church/politics side of things, but it doesn't dominate this story. I didn't like Alice at all, but then I don't think I was supposed to. And Edward is a louse, but again that's just a small part of the book, and it does all tie in eventually. I'm glad to see these books finally in e-book form, as I've always felt they deserve a wider audience. If you like Cadfael you'll probably like this series.
A fair amount of time elapses between the first and second book. Owen has married and is still serving his apprenticeship until the Archbishop calls in a favor. During a major celebration a visiting guildsman is killed and his hand removed in sight of a young boy. The hand is found in his friend's room at the inn. Owen is set to investigate. The plot reaches high levels, more bodies drop, and more threats are made. Did not figure it all out, don't think I was trying I was just caught up in the story. Every once in a while a big clue would catch my eye, but really just immersed in Owen's world.
What do You think about The Lady Chapel (1995)?
The second in the Owen Archer mystery series. Some time has passed since the first book. Owen is enjoying his apprenticeship as an apothecary, but he still owes allegiance to the Archbishop which propels him, reluctantly, into solving another murder. The fact that he has doubts about his abilities as a detective makes hims a more likable sleuth.The author does a good job of fleshing out the 14th century world in which Owen lives. Some of the motivations seem awfully modern, but perhaps people haven't really changed all that much.
—Lisa
